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Thursday, June 30, 2016

From the time Er Shun and Da Mao arrived from China in 2013, giant pandas became Toronto favorites among kids and adults. Their exhibit at The Toronto Zoo is extremely popular and must see when you visit Toronto Zoo. Er Shun and Da Mao represent endangered giant pandas species and were chosen to join special conservation project. Black and white in markings, giant pandas have unique habits, life and food preferences. They are lovely, can be flexible and clumsy at the same time. Plus everyone wants to see new panda cubs born in Canada Jia Panpan and Jia Yueyue. They are very cute and funny.

Giant pandas received huge popularity after the release of Kung Fu Panda 3 movie years ago. Since that time everything related to pandas ignite huge interest. Last week we had an opportunity to attend Kung Fu Panda 3 event dedicated to the upcoming release of Kung Fu Panda 3 movie on DVD and Blu-Ray.

At the day of the event lots of kids from school arrived to the Zoo for educational trip to learn more about nature, animals and conservation work. The line to see pandas were very long so we decided to wait until afternoon. Instead we decided to explore the other areas of the zoo including polar bear, rhino, forest animals and children’s mini-park.

Then we had a BBQ lunch in the Wildlife Marquee at the zoo, the day was very hot so some refreshments helped a lot. After lunch we had an absolutely amazing meet & greet with camel, sloth and bald eagle. The Zoo staff told us interesting facts about animals, their food choices, behavior and environment they live in. Teddy was excited to be close to the animals, even touch them. He said that he can feel how camel breaths when touched its hump. And sloth goes to the “washroom” only once a week and very picky with what it eats.

After the meeting with animals we set up to watch the movie. At first we decided to leave because it was very hot and we already spend much time at the zoo. But luckily the weather became much better and outdoor screening under the tent was fun. We laughed almost the whole movie, it was really funny. The only scene when I almost cried was when friends and family tried to save Po from villain.

After the movie we could not wait to see pandas. The line was much shorter and we were eager to learn more about them. The Panda Exhibit is a huge pavilion where you can get lots of information about pandas. Every time we visit the Panda Exhibit, something new and exciting waits for us. Our Toronto pandas are really amusing, same as in the movie. They even move and act the same, can be funny and serious.

You can visit giant panda cubs from 9:00am to 5:30pm daily in the Giant Panda Experience. We wish them growth and more little cubs in the future. I am sure we all going to miss these adorable bamboo eaters when they leave Toronto in 2018.

We spent a nice day at The Toronto Zoo, so next time we see animals on TV, we that they are not only exist in real world but also need our support and protection. Enjoy Kung Fu Panda 3, which is now available On Demand, DVD & Blu-Ray.

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

If you want to travel in time to 1860s, Toronto’s premier outdoor living history museum Black Creek Pioneer Village is one of the best places to start. Visitors can explore 40 heritage homes, shops and buildings restored to re-create 19th century living with interpretations how villagers lived, worked, communicated, dressed and celebrated special days. The Black Creek Pioneer Village also hosts special events through the year, and we had a chance to join some of them.

This year on Father’s Day weekend we visited The Village to be a part of spectacular event - the Battle of Black Creek - A Revolutionary War Re-enactment that place Loyalists against Patriots in a fight for control of the Village. The whole site was transformed into military camps with tents, soldiers, carts, inspiring speeches and demonstrations. Visitors were invited to walk through the camps and learn about military time of 1770th when the war influenced and put a significant impact on lives of soldiers and their families including women, seniors and children. Scenes form the life and battles during the American Revolution were on-site to show what happened many years ago and how the actions influenced Canadian history. The public was presented what happened to Loyalists, refugees, Native Americans and everyone who were around that time to experience victories and losses, pain and joy.

We had a chance to join musket demonstration to see how it works; it was very spectacular and loud by the way. The weapons were not pretty much precise in 18th century and require lots of practice to use them. We also joined the Recruitment Tent to learn what was needed to join the army and how simple but difficult and dangerous military life was. Everything that time was made by hand so to make a pair of shoes, a musket, a uniform, a medication and even a blanket required much time and resources. Medical care was not widely accessible, plus they did not have any antibiotics and many pain relievers to take care of wounded soldiers from the battlefields. We visited Doctor’s Tent on a battle field and saw how medical staff treated patients and performed a field surgery. There were lots of refugees looking for support and settlement.

It was nice to join 18th century fashion show where we saw various outfits representing the occupation and social status. The clothes were influenced by surrounding military operations and represented practical purpose. The variety of colorful fabric was very limited and was available to only wealthy people who can afford them.

In the afternoon we joined the Battle of the Black Creek. It was spectacular sequence of military actions across The Village, we followed 18th century soldiers representing different parties in this war for freedom. The participants of the Battle were wearing 18th century costumes, hair styles and camouflage. We saw Loyalists, Native Americans and Patriots participating in military actions along with women and young children helping them. You were able to see soldiers fighting with each other, hear the sounds of firing muskets. The smoke, cry, commands, running soldiers, everything was on the Battle Field. We saw soldiers hiding in the forest, and a regiment setting military spot in the bushes, wounded soldiers (not real ones, do not worry) taken from the field. And finally, flags and drums to celebrate the victory. The whole battle scene was interpreted by a guide who told visitors stories, explanations and interesting facts from 18th century.

During the day the Village offered various activities for children and adults including Track the Yankee Spy to find clues across the settlement and de-code the message or check Cabinet Shop to learn about history of 1860.
We spent a great day at the Black Creek Pioneer Village. It was perfect gift for Father’s Day and we learned many interesting things about history, military camps, soldiers and battles. Teddy was dressed up as French musketeer and met French officer at the Village.

Admission to Black Creek Pioneer Village is $15 for adults; $12 for students and seniors; $11 for children (age 5 – 15); free for children 4 and under, and free for members. Memberships are available at the admissions desk. Parking is $7.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Bugs, flies and mosquitoes can be really annoying, especially when during summer time when it is hot outside. We open all windows to let some fresh air in when spending time at the cottage. The doors usually need more care because we tend to come in and out more often to take food & drinks, change clothes, go swimming, and participate in other activities. To avoid chasing pesky flies and mosquitoes during days and nights indoor and make our life much easier, Premium Choice Products designed Magnetic Screen Door to keep insects out and fresh air in. It is amazing how simple and helpful bug mesh can be with extra design features. Premium Magnetic Screen Door is quality mesh with magnetic seal in the middle so you can easily walk through and it closes automatically.

It looks like real door but let fresh air into the house. I like how easy to install it, just using frame Velcro on top and sides. The bug mesh sides stick pretty tight and overall the quality of mesh is really good. Premium Magnetic Screen Door items do not have “warehouse” smell you get from cheap quality products. I like that the mesh is not plain net, it has vertical lines and they look nice. Premium Magnetic Screen Door has magnet strips in the middle to let you walk hand free, perfect when taking food and drinks for picnic outside. There is a little gap on top without magnet that would be better to have one so the door to close tight.

The door works great for keeping various insects out and some curious pets too. Keep in mind that the Velcro sticks pretty tight to the door frame. Just in case, Premium Magnetic Screen Door pack also includes extra pins, black color.
Available via Amazon,Instant Bug Mesh Door is great protection against bugs, flies, mosquitoes and wasps.

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

Love adventures with Dorothy and her friends? Get set for another “oz-some” adventure with animation’s favorite tussling twosome, Tom and Jerry in Warner Bros. Home Entertainment’s newest original film, Tom and Jerry: Back to Oz. Available in stores today, June 21, 2016, this entertaining family film follows everyone’s favorite cat and mouse as they return to the captivating Land of Oz for another exciting adventure with Dorothy, Toto, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Lion and their companions.

Tap your heels together three times and prepare to journey over the rainbow once again, for another delightful adventure with the cantankerous cat and the mischievous mouse in Tom and Jerry: Back to Oz. The Wicked Witch of the West may have been defeated but it’s not long before a new villain emerges and threatens the magical Land of Oz! Only Tom and Jerry’s brilliant antics are clever enough to take on this new adversary.

When the Gnome King and his army surface from beneath Oz and capture the Good Witch, the wizard turns to Tom, Jerry and Dorothy for help. He brings them back to Oz to help stop the evil monarch, who has threatened to take control of Emerald City. Having wreaked havoc throughout Oz, the Gnome King and his army need one thing to finalize their conquest – Dorothy’s ruby slippers! It’s up to Tom and Jerry to use their quick wits and clever schemes to save Oz. Dorothy’s cherished friends, the Lion, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and her little dog Toto too, join in their valiant efforts. Will the Gnome King take over Emerald City or will Tom and Jerry’s hilarious high jinks save the day? The result is a rip-roaring, fun-filled, magical adventure Tom and Jerry fans won’t want to miss!

The Wizard of Oz and its beloved characters have captured the hearts of fans for generations. Tom and Jerry are loved by kids and adults alike. With this fun new film, viewers will be able to reconnect with everything they love about Oz but in a whole new story.

Originally created by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, Tom and Jerry emerged during Hollywood’s golden age of animation and became one of the most popular cartoon series in existence. The shorts focused on the never-ending rivalry between Tom the cat and Jerry the mouse. The plots of each short usually center on Tom’s attempts to capture Jerry. Jerry however, is clever and quick on his feet, thus ensuring that Tom hardly ever manages to catch him.

Tom and Jerry: Back to Oz is the second animated Tom and Jerry film based on the classic Wizard of Oz book series. The first film, Tom and Jerry & the Wizard of Oz, was released by Warner Bros. Home Entertainment in 2011. The Wizard of Oz is one of the most recognizable brands in family entertainment. Metro-Goldwyn-Meyer’s 1939 film adaptation starring Judy Garland not only became one of the best-known interpretations of the classic novel but also originated some of the most unforgettable music of all time.

Thanks to Warner Bros. Home Entertainment we are excited to give away two copies of Tom and Jerry: Back to Oz on DVD to enjoy episodes and favorite characters. The giveaway is open to US residents only (no P.O. Boxes, please) & ends July 10, 2016.

Friday, June 17, 2016

It is time to get back to the beautiful ocean which does not have any walls and join adventures of characters which became our favorite more than a decade ago. Only this time it is all around never boring and forgetful blue tang Dory (voice of Ellen DeGeneres). Once she remembers that somewhere there is her family she misses so much and wants it back. While she is determined to find her family, Marlin, Nemo’s father (voice of Albert Brooks) is quite reluctant to go on the journey to California worrying about Dory’s and Nemo’s safety. Nevertheless, the trio decide to cross the ocean to reach California’s Marine Life Institute. Once they get to the MLI, Dory and her friends face multiple challenges. They meet various ocean creatures and ask for help to find Dory’s mom and dad. One moment Dory,Nemo & Marlin are together and next they are separated and try to find each other.

At the Marine Life Institute Dory finds help from Hank (voice of Ed O’Neill), an octopus who is a master in disguise and wants to help Dory in exchange for the tag she got from the staff. She also meets Destiny (voice of Kaitlin Olson), a nearsighted whale shark who recognizes Dory as they were close friends many years ago but Dory does not remember that. The adventures would not be hilarious without Bailey (voice of Ty Burrell), a beluga whale, whose echolocation skills are found real purpose and appreciation. Almost until last moment I had a feeling that Dory is not going to find her parents, because after many years it is almost impossible. The story is very touching as Dory remembers different moments from her childhood and not all of them at once, just one by one. Soon she finds that her home, called Ocean, really was not the ocean but a huge tank where rescued marine creatures find temporary home at the MLN.

Finding Dory totally convinced me that sometimes it is good to have memory loss so that you do not remember that you cannot do something and follow your dreams. In this story Dory and her parents do so much to find each other, Dory with short memory loss but with hope in her heart to find her mom and dad. And Dory parents who never questioned that one day their lost girl shows up and never stopped waiting for her.

The movie now playing in theatres, so do not miss an opportunity to watch Finding Dory on a big screen. It is spectacular movie for the whole family and perfect for upcoming Father’s Day weekend!

Thursday, June 16, 2016

I often forget to charge our devices and their batteries die ridiculously fast. I have one output car charger that it is not enough for us, because each of us has a phone and a tablet.

Meago 4.8A Dual USB Ports Car Charger arrived to save us with our devices. It has dual USB ports to charge two devices at the same time, so if I forget it to do it in the evening I can have everything charged during my morning ride.

My favorite combination is to charge my phone and portable battery so when my ride is over I am fully equipped and do not need to think about it anymore. The best thing this charger can be used to charge all major compatible digital devices. I like that the charger has over-heating protection and made of fireproof materials because even with my regular charges the cord becomes really hot so we have to be very careful with that.
The car charger will automatically stop charging when the device's battery is full. It also has a blue LED light to remind us that we need to charge our devices.

Meago 4.8A Dual USB Ports Car Charger is made of quality materials and has aluminum finish. Available via Amazon.ca for $12.99 this adapter is a great tech accessory for everyone. For stylish folks this adapter comes in different colors to match the color of the car or a finishing inside.

For more information about the Car Charger and other products for a car, please visit Meago web site.

If you are in Toronto, we have an exciting opportunity to win one of two family packs to a special screening of Kung Fu Panda 3 at The Toronto Zoo. I think there is no better place to watch this movie than the Toronto Zoo where you can meet real panda family and learn more about pandas and their life.

Po and the Furious Five are back in the hilarious, critically acclaimed hit film your whole family will love! After reuniting with his long-lost father, Po travels to a secret village and meets tons of hilarious new panda friends and family members. But when the supernatural villain Kai challenges all the Kung Fu masters across China, Po must discover the teacher within himself and train his clumsy brethren to become the ultimate band of Kung Fu Pandas!

Sweepstakes is open only to those in the Toronto area who can travel to the Toronto Zoo for the event on June 24

Only one sweeps entry per follower

Entries will be accepted up to June 21

2 winners will be drawn via random electronic selection process

Winner is only eligible to win one prize, which must be accepted as awarded.

Prizes cannot be transferred, substituted or redeemed for cash. By entering this sweepstakes, entrants agree to be bound by these sweepstakes rules which are final and binding.
The winners will be drawn on June 21 and will be notified by email immediately.

The winners must make their way to the Toronto Zoo to pick up their passes (the day of the screening only, passes will not be available beforehand).

Passes will allow full entry to the zoo before and after the screening.

Winners need to bring IDs to obtain passes

Winners must arrive early to the screening. Seating is on a first-come, first-seated basis.

Friday, June 10, 2016

Sparkhead Kids company is our Toronto neighbour. They make wonderful duvets, curtains, cushions and prints to decorate children rooms and brings some magic to their dreams. We adore their unique designs you cannot find anywhere else. Sparkhead Kids also writes and illustrates own books with engaging stories and activities every kid would love to read and be involved. Their products have the whole set of characters to follow and enjoy with your children. I like how they match everything from bedding sets to books and art prints. The room can look according to the favorite theme and have a unique style.

Recently, we had a chance to review their Campfire Tales books which includes Activity Book and the story about Frog and Coyote. We also received an absolutely fantastic Golden Moose Green Velveteen Cushion Cover. Since we spend our summers camping, campfire stories and activities was very interesting for Teddy to read. He read the story about Frog and Coyote at bed time one day. He liked it so much except he said that Grandmother does not look like one. We told him that Grandmother has to be young and active to go camping, so after that Teddy totally agreed with the book. The Activity Book is fun for kids too. It is pretty thick and has interesting tasks for children, from coloring and matching to learning about First Aid and forest animals.

Moose pillow cover is colorful quality product with very cute animal design. We love the bright colors used for this product and soft velveteen, perfect for kids and their rooms. Children start asking questions and become more interested in learning about the Great North American Wilderness, forest habitats and how they look like. Teddy said that the pillow is so soft and he likes the design on it.

Sparkhead Kids offers a wide selection of products for boys and girls just check the company on-line store. The products also make wonderful gifts from new born babies to grownups as their creative room décor prints and bedding can brighten any children room and enhance their imagination! With upcoming Father’s Day and Canada Day you can find unique, one of a kind and special gift at Sparkhead Kids, made in Canada with love of nature and art.

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About me

My name is Faniya and I am Mommy to lovely little boy Teddy. Together we love to go out, be active and explore this amazing world every single day. Join our stories, adventures and discoveries. You can contact me via e-mail: info@teddyoutready.com. Always love to talk.